This new interactive museum in northern Virginia is set to give visitors the most comprehensive representation of the United States Army from its founding up to present day.
One of the country’s newest and most exciting museums scheduled to open in 2020 will celebrate over 240 years of U.S. Army history and foster continuing education long into the future. Located on 84 acres in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, the center is primed to serve as a major regional destination for veterans, families, active duty military, school groups, tourists, and more. Just 20 minutes from the Washington, D.C. National Mall, the museum will stand among the many world-class institutions which surround it and it is sure to be the most comprehensive historical representation of the U.S. Army from the founding of the United States up to the present day. All of this is thanks to a major joint effort between the U.S. Army and the non-profit organization The Army Historical Foundation (AHF).
Fort Belvoir, Virginia
The site of the museum itself is also of historic significance, as Fort Belvoir has long been a strategic base for the U.S. Army and is therefore a critical location in determining and maintaining the country’s defense strategy. It’s the perfect location for a museum of this caliber and sets the scene for what is sure to be an incredible learning experience. Located on the shores of the Potomac River and just miles from Washington’s home in Mount Vernon and the monuments of the nation’s capital, the setting is rich and both history and natural beauty.
Group Tour Opportunities
The National Museum of the United States Army looks forward to welcoming groups who wish to experience the power and significance of the U.S. Army in an interactive setting. In addition to educational exhibits detailing the impressive and world-renowned history of the U.S. Army from its founding in 1775 up until the present day, there will be a variety of interactive experiences that truly bring the museum to life, including a 122-seat multi-dimensional theater, simulators, and an experiential learning center. The simulators will transport visitors into an Army experience thanks to the power of virtual reality, motion platforms, and state-of-the-art sound systems. The Experiential Learning Center is perfect for groups and will be a state-of-the-art interactive learning center incorporating geography, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into educational programs related directly to museum themes as visitors are transported into simulated rescue mission activities. “From the various galleries, 300+ degree multi-dimensional Army Theater, fully interactive Experiential Learning Center, cutting edge simulation and virtual reality experiences, and the gourmet café, we are excited to bring this incredible destination to the market,” said Jamie Hubans, director of Museum Operations for The Army Historical Foundation.
Advanced ticketing options are currently under development for tour groups, with an all-in-one group tour package offering specialty pricing that includes simulator tickets, lunch, retail vouchers, and photography experience. There will also be discounts of 10 percent in both the café and gift shop for groups of 25 or more. Plans are also underway for bundled tour packages that will allow groups to take advantage of all the historical and cultural attractions that the northern Virginia area has to offer its visitors. Check out the historic home of George and Martha Washington and Mount Vernon, learn about the arts at the Workhouse Arts Center, or learn about the great battles of the Civil War at Gettysburg National Military Park. These are just some of the adventures that can accompany a group visit to the National Museum of the United States Army.
By Courtney Lind
For more information and to stay up-to-date on museum news visit http://thenmusa.org.
Group travel planners looking for preferred access and advanced notice for the latest museum groups tour booking information are invited to email Jamie.Hubans@armyhistory.org.
